Riis Skov

A 65-hectare beech forest stretching along the coast north of the city. Queen Margrethe I granted it to Aarhus in 1395, making it Denmark's first public forest. The trails range from paved paths to muddy tracks depending on season and maintenance. Spring brings carpets of ramsons; summer brings mosquitoes. The coastal views look across to Helgenæs peninsula. Popular with runners, dog walkers, and mountain bikers. Parking lots fill on sunny weekends. Free access year-round.